Very few people are lucky enough to live out their childhood dream. For Dr. Robert Mann, he lives his dream every day he spends working as a veterinarian. “I could not imagine my life if I were not a veterinarian and an Ohio State grad,” Mann said. “It’s not just what I do, it’s who I am.”

Mann, class of ’87, had no doubt that he would become a veterinarian like his father. Also like his father, he wouldn’t be happy going to just any veterinary school. The only school he wanted to attend was The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine—the best veterinary college in the world according to Mann.

As a student from West Virginia, Mann qualified for in-state tuition because West Virginia was still a contract state at the time. Because there are no longer any contract states, incoming out-of-state students must pay the full out-of-state tuition cost for their first year. Mann hopes to help bridge this gap of tuition expenses for these students. “I don’t want tuition costs standing in the way of a student’s dream to attend Ohio State and become a veterinarian,” he said.

Mann has been a loyal donor to the college over the years. “I’m a believer in Woody Hayes’ pay forward philosophy,” said Mann. “We must help those who follow behind us because we can’t help those who helped us along the way.” Mann recognizes that his support and commitment to future students will help keep Ohio State among the very best colleges of veterinary medicine.

As loyal Buckeye fans, Mann and his wife Pam knew from the beginning of their estate planning that they wanted to support Ohio State. Their estate gift will support student scholarships, residency programs, and the Ohio State Veterinary Medical Center—ensuring promising futures for veterinary students and the highest level of care for their patients.

Mann encourages others to support Ohio State. “Our lives get very busy and our responsibilities mount, but don’t put off estate planning,” said Mann. “Be proactive and as generous as possible to honor Ohio State and help create opportunities for future students.”